Final answer:
The reduction of radiation dose to the patient when using digital imaging compared to D-speed film is approximately 80-90%, greatly minimizing the risks associated with radiation exposure in diagnostic imaging.
Step-by-step explanation:
Compared to D-speed film, the reduction of radiation dose to the patient when using digital imaging is approximately 80-90%. The shift from film to digital detectors in radiography has greatly improved the efficiency of x-ray use. Digital systems require significantly less radiation to produce an image of similar diagnostic quality. This dramatic reduction in exposure helps to minimize the risks associated with radiation, making the process safer for patients.
The risk versus benefit of medical doses of radiation is always considered in diagnostic imaging. With advances in technology, doses have decreased for many procedures. For example, chest x-rays give very low doses around 0.1 mSv, with minimal scatter into adjacent tissues. Digital imaging represents a substantial improvement in this regard over traditional film methods like D-speed film.